A fresh, ribboned carrot salad with parmesan, basil, and toasted walnuts .Bright, crisp, and the perfect side for rich entrées.

FEATURED STANDOUTS

Carrots

The star of the show, carrots provide a foundational sweetness and a pleasant earthiness that grounds the other flavors. Their inherent crunch offers a satisfying textural contrast, making each bite engaging. Beyond their taste and texture, carrots are a rich source of vitamins and antioxidants, adding a healthy boost to this delicious dish.

Walnut

Offering a sophisticated counterpoint, walnuts introduce a rich, toasty, and nutty flavor. Their slightly bitter notes beautifully complement the sweetness of the carrots, while their firm, crunchy texture provides an additional layer of complexity. Walnuts are also packed with healthy fats and protein, contributing to a more fulfilling salad.

Basil

A fragrant herb, basil injects a burst of fresh, aromatic brightness into the salad. Its peppery, slightly sweet, and anise-like notes elevate the overall flavor profile, preventing the dish from becoming overly sweet or heavy. The vibrant green leaves also add a visually appealing pop of color.

Parmesan

This hard, salty cheese brings a sharp, umami-rich punch that expertly balances the natural sweetness of the carrots. Its distinct savory depth adds a gourmet touch, while its finely grated texture melds seamlessly with the other ingredients. For those seeking a dairy-free option, high-quality vegan parmesan alternatives can be used without compromising flavor.

Dressing

The unsung hero, the dressing is crucial for tying all the distinct flavors and textures together. A well-crafted dressing, often a vinaigrette, provides a crucial tang and richness that coats each ingredient, ensuring a cohesive and well-rounded flavor experience in every forkful. It enhances the natural flavors without overwhelming them.

TIPS & TRICKS FOR THE BEST RIBBON CARROT SALAD

Use a potato peeler for long, ribbon-like slices

Instead of traditional grating, a potato peeler allows you to create elegant, thin ribbons of carrot. This technique not only enhances the visual appeal of the salad but also provides a more delicate and satisfying texture, allowing the dressing to coat each strand more effectively.

Dress lightly to avoid sogginess

While dressing is essential, moderation is key. Too much dressing can quickly turn a crisp salad into a soggy mess. Start with a small amount and add more as needed, ensuring each ribbon is lightly coated rather than drenched. This preserves the carrots’ natural crunch.

Chill before serving for added crunch

Refrigerating the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving not only allows the flavors to meld beautifully but also significantly enhances the crunchiness of the carrots. The cold temperature firms up the vegetables, resulting in a more refreshing and enjoyable texture.

Add fresh herbs right before serving for aroma

To maximize their vibrant aroma and flavor, delicate fresh herbs like basil should be added just before the salad is served. This prevents them from wilting or losing their potency, ensuring a fresh and fragrant burst with every bite.

Pair with vinaigrette to balance the richness of parmesan

The sharp and rich notes of parmesan are wonderfully complemented by the bright acidity of a vinaigrette. My toasted walnut vinaigrette recipe pairs perfectly

INCLUSIVE ADAPTIONS

Use pre-shredded carrots for less prep

For those with limited time or who prefer a quicker preparation, pre-shredded carrots are an excellent option. They eliminate the need for peeling and grating, making the salad assembly much faster without sacrificing flavor or quality.

Swap walnuts for pumpkin seeds to avoid allergens

If nut allergies are a concern, pumpkin seeds offer a fantastic alternative to walnuts. They provide a similar satisfying crunch and a subtly nutty flavor, ensuring that individuals with allergies can still enjoy the textural and flavor complexity of the salad. Toasted pumpkin seeds can further enhance their flavor.

Use a silicone grip peeler for better hand control

For individuals who may have difficulty with grip or dexterity, a potato peeler with a silicone grip can make the task of creating carrot ribbons significantly easier and safer. This small modification ensures greater comfort and control during preparation.

Choose dairy-free parmesan if needed

For those following a dairy-free diet or with lactose intolerance, there are numerous high-quality dairy-free parmesan alternatives available. These products mimic the savory, umami flavor of traditional parmesan, allowing everyone to enjoy the full flavor profile of the salad.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED TO MAKE THIS RECIPE

Peeler

Mixing bowl

Tongs

Measuring spoons

Serving bowl

SIMILAR INGREDIENTS TO

BLACK PEPPERCORN SHORTBREAD BISCUITS

APPLE PIE JAM + PIE CRUST COOKIES

CINNAMON ROLLS CREAM CHEESE TOPPING

ENJOY THIS RECIPE WITH

SPICED APPLESAUCE CAKE

CANDIED CITRUS RIND TEA INFUSERS

PAN AU CHOCOLAT BREAD PUDDING

RECIPE

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